Expert: Roger Lederer - 5/23/2010

Question
the baby swallow was given to me by a friend who undoubtably didn't want a cloudy conscience, i got it only a few hours ago, and it doesn't want to eat  much, my conclusion is just that it is in shock.
it has accepted a few mosquitos, and a couple of fruit fly's, but we really had to prompt it.it chirps a little when it is left alone... i understand that swallows are very hard to keep alive so can you give me any advice on doing just that? thank you.

Answer
The first thing to do is put it back into the nest; it should not have been taken away. It is VERY hard to raise a baby bird of any kind, especially swallows. You need to contact your local wildlife/bird rehab center for help and advice. Fruit flies and mosquitoes will work, temporarily, but putting it back into the nest is best and if you can't, get professional help. You can also go to www.ornithology.com/rehab.html for information on raising baby birds.